Shamrock Rovers win first division

Shamrock Rovers were crowned eircom League First Division champions after a dramatic 1-1 draw with nine-man Cobh Ramblers at a packed St Coleman's Park tonight.

Coming into this match, Rovers were three points ahead of second-placed Dundalk. The Louth team's match with Finn Harps was postponed until tomorrow afternoon, due to a waterlogged pitch in Ballybofey.

The Dublin club's goal difference was 18 goals better than their Oriel Park counterparts, so only a couple of incredible scorelines would see the championship title not going to the Hoops.

But to have the trophy presented on the night, Rovers simply had to avoid defeat against Ramblers.

Cobh had a great opportunity to take the lead just after the hour mark when, following a fine four-man passing movement, David Warren was brought down in the penalty area by centre-back Ian Ryan.

Substitute Willie Bruton's spot-kick was smothered by Rovers goalkeeper Barry Murphy, much to the delight of the huge travelling support.

The home side were reduced to ten men after 63 minutes when defender Kevin Murray was shown a red card by referee Padraic Sutton for a pushing incident on Tadgh Purcell.

Gareth Cambridge then headed Ramblers in front with 11 minutes remaining, flicking home an Alan Carey free-kick.

But Purcell started the party in Cobh when he scored Rovers' equaliser, connecting with Ger O'Brien's free-kick.

The home side were reduced to nine men just before the end, captain John Meade shown a straight red by Padraic Sutton for a foul on Ray Kenny.